A primary health care provider is a must for everyone, regardless of whether an individual suffers from a chronic condition, occasional illness, or is in excellent health. It is also important that that provider be someone that the patient likes, trusts, and respects. Many insurance plans often ask patients to identify one health care provider as the primary care provider or physician. Whether required by insurance or not, there are many things to consider when choosing a primary health care provider.

Begin The Search For A Primary Care Provider

First, consider where the perfect health care provider should be located. Some may prefer to have a family doctor in the same area of the city in which they live or to have one in the same small town. Others may opt for reputation over local and choose a provider in another area or even in a different city. Remember that some providers will operate in an individual office, others in a physicians group, and some attached to a medical center or hospital. Some health insurance policies dictate that a particular medical facility must be used so it is wise to choose a primary care provider that will be covered under your health care plan.

Next, think about what kind of primary care provider you want. Do you prefer a medical doctor, an osteopath, a nurse practitioner, a physician in general or family practice, a doctor specializing in internal medicine, or a specialist? Each type of health care provider has different education and training requirements. A medical doctor has been through four years of college and four additional years of medical school before he or she began an internship. Osteopaths also have intensive education and training but not at the same level as a medical doctor (MD). Nurse practitioners are registered nurses who examine and diagnose patients. Most work in conjunction with a medical doctor who writes prescriptions on the nurse practitioners recommendations. Training and requirements for nurse practitioners varies from state to state. Physicians who opt for general or family practice will treat all members of the family, from infants to senior citizens while internal medicine doctors treat adults. Specialists are available in many fields and may be warranted if an ongoing or chronic medical condition exists. Patients with heart disease or a history of cardiac issues will want to see a cardiologist. Pregnant women often are attended by a doctor with a specialty in obstetrics and many children are cared for by pediatricians, doctors who specialize in the treatment of children.

Once you have narrowed down convenient locations and the type of provider you want, consider other factors. Should your primary health care provider be a new doctor and well versed in the cutting edge of medical technology or do you prefer an older, seasoned doctor with years of experience? Does gender matter? Keep in mind that although an older physician has experience; he or she may also be nearing a retirement age. Think about that before you make a choice. No one wants to choose a doctor to rely on when he may retire within a few years.

If it matters to you, find out where the providers you are considering gained their education. Increasing numbers of physicians today were educated outside of the United States. Many overseas schools are excellent and produce outstanding doctors. When in doubt, check out the doctor’s reputation through many sites online that can verify education, experience, and any information prospective patients should know, such as lawsuits or negligence.

Find out if the providers are board certified. Board certification is often misunderstood but what it indicates is that the physician who is board certified had his or her knowledge verified beyond med school exams and graduation.

Ask about what medical facility the provider will use should hospitalization be necessary. Make sure it is a hospital that you feel comfortable with and would want to utilize for a stay. Keep in mind that the location would be important to other family members should you be admitted to the hospital.

Other Important Considerations

Find out about office hours and if extended or weekend hours are possible. If flexibility in hours is important to you, ask about the possibility of after hours appointments. If you have children, remember that children often become ill when most doctors are unavailable during evenings and weekends. Ask if a child could be seen during those times or what the normal procedure would be.

Network with relatives and friends. Learn their opinions on various providers. Ask before you make a choice to avoid hearing ugly stories later. Since most physicians work in tandem with other doctors who will cover their calls during off-hours (weekends, vacations, emergencies), be sure to ask who the physician uses for back-up or shares calls with. If it proves to be someone you don’t care for, consider making another choice.

Learn if your beliefs are compatible with the doctors, if it may matter. As an example, someone who feels strongly against abortion may not feel comfortable being treated by a pro-abortion physician. Before you make a choice is the time to find out if beliefs conflict in a way that could impact treatment and care.

Find out if the practitioner is accepting new patients. Some busy physicians have more than enough patients and can’t accept any additional ones.

Although it may sound strange, once you have narrowed the field of choices, make appointments with the finalists. Visit with each one and see if he or she feels like a fit. If the provider objects or thinks this is unnecessary, that might be the one you want to avoid. Most providers will understand how important a good rapport can be toward a doctor/patient relationship.

Once you have chosen a primary care provider, give yourself time to settle into the relationship. Within a short time, you should feel comfortable with the provider and that you are in capable hands. If not, it may be time to start anew. Patients who find themselves in less than perfect situations should consider a change. Don’t sell your health care short because you feel a sense of loyalty toward a physician. If you or your family members are not receiving the kind of health care you desire, explain that to the provider. Working together you may be able to solve any bumps in the road.

How can any patient know when they have made the right choice? Feeling comfortable with the doctor and his staff is one major indicator. Ask yourself if you are able to ask questions without feeling embarrassed or shy and if the doctor’s bedside manner satisfies you. You shouldn’t feel rushed to be hurried away after an appointment if you have questions. Any questions you may have should be treated with respect and answered to your satisfaction before you walk out of the exam room. Do you trust the provider to suggest the best treatment and care? If so, then you’re well on your way to a long and healthy relationship with a primary care provider.